Naidu pushes PNG, electric shift amid cooking gas shortage

In a bid to address the ongoing LPG supply challenges, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed officials to prepare a comprehensive action plan to transition from liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to alternative energy sources such as piped natural gas (PNG) and electric appliances across Andhra Pradesh.

Reviewing the situation at the camp office on Monday, the Chief Minister emphasised the need to expand PNG connectivity across the State.

Officials informed him that while infrastructure exists to support 2.34 lakh connections, only about 60,000 consumers are currently using the service.

Setting an ambitious target, Mr. Naidu instructed authorities to ensure full utilisation of the existing capacity and facilitate at least 10,000 new PNG connections in each district.

He also directed officials to take immediate steps to restore the Srikakulam–Kakinada gas pipeline and to engage with the Union government for necessary support.

Further, the Chief Minister called for expediting approvals related to the AP City Gas Distribution (CGD) network and asked officials to present a Natural Gas Promotion Policy for the commercial sector at the upcoming Cabinet meeting.

Describing the current gas shortage as an opportunity, Mr. Naidu encouraged the promotion of electric cooking alternatives such as induction stoves and electric cookers. He stressed that LPG supplies must be prioritised for critical sectors, including hospitals, educational institutions, anganwadis, Anna canteens, and hotels.

Officials said about 1.8 lakh LPG cylinders are being supplied daily, with an available stock of 14,444 metric tonnes.

On the agriculture front, the Chief Minister instructed officials to submit a detailed report on crop damage caused by recent unseasonal rains by March 26.

Highlighting the role of technology, Mr. Naidu said the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Tirumala has significantly reduced waiting time and enabled nearly 20% more devotees to access darshan. He urged departments to adopt technologies such as AI, Internet of Things (IoT), and drones to improve governance and service delivery.

Meanwhile, Information and Public Relations Minister Kolusu Parthasarathi reassured the public that there is no need for concern over LPG shortages.

The Minister reiterated the push for PNG and electric alternatives, noting that pipeline approvals are being fast-tracked to promote wider adoption.

Mr. Parthasarathi said AI-based early warning systems helped farmers minimise crop losses during recent rains by enabling timely harvesting and protective measures. Preliminary estimates indicate that more than 13,000 farmers and 1,800 horticulture farmers have been affected.

He added that crop damage assessment will be completed by March 26, with details displayed at Rythu Seva Kendras between March 27 and 29. Final district reports are expected by March 31.

The Minister also highlighted steps being taken to ensure fair prices for maize farmers facing declining market rates.